Elizabeth Hendrickson is stepping offscreen in a bold new role After 24 years in front of the camera, she’s making her directorial debut on The Young and the Restless—with her first episode airing August 5
- Posted on August 5, 2025
Elizabeth Hendrickson Takes the Helm: Behind the Scenes of Her Directorial Debut on The Young and the Restless
A Beloved Star Steps into a Bold New Role
After more than two decades captivating audiences in front of the camera, The Young and the Restless (Y&R) fan-favorite Elizabeth Hendrickson is boldly stepping into new territory. In a heartfelt Instagram post that has since made waves in the soap opera community, Hendrickson revealed that she is now taking a turn behind the camera—directing her first-ever episode of the iconic CBS daytime drama.
Her directorial debut is no small occasion. Episode #13181, slated to air on August 5, 2025, marks a significant personal and professional milestone—not just for Hendrickson, but also for the Y&R legacy itself. Fans can expect a blend of familiar emotional storytelling and a fresh visual lens guided by someone who has lived and breathed the soap opera world for nearly 25 years.
Stepping Behind the Camera With Heart
In her Instagram post, Hendrickson shared a series of behind-the-scenes snapshots from her directing experience. The first image was a close-up of a clapperboard that read: “The Young and the Restless. CBS Television City”—a classic symbol of her transition from star to storyteller.
The rest of the photos took followers deeper into her journey, showcasing Hendrickson in action. From giving notes to actors to reviewing footage with intense focus, she appeared right at home in her new role. One particularly touching photo captured an emotional moment between her and legendary actor Eric Braeden, who plays the formidable Victor Newman. The two shared a meaningful conversation and a warm hug—perhaps symbolic of the torch being passed in a creative sense.
Unexpected Reunions and Exciting Appearances
Fans also picked up on a few interesting details hidden in the carousel of images. One shot featured actress Allison Lanier, who had stepped away from her role as Summer Newman earlier in May. Her appearance raised eyebrows and fueled speculation: is Summer making a surprise return? Hendrickson didn’t confirm anything explicitly, but her subtle inclusion of Lanier was more than enough to ignite fan theories.
Another standout was Nathan Owens, who portrays the character Holden. Dressed in a tuxedo and posing in front of a green screen, Owens’ confident smile suggested big things for his role. Fans also noticed that he has been added to the show’s iconic opening credits—further hinting that Holden’s story arc may soon take center stage.
A Day With the Legends
Perhaps the most awe-inspiring part of Hendrickson’s debut was the fact that her first day as director involved working with two titans of daytime television: Eric Braeden (Victor Newman) and Melody Thomas Scott (Nikki Newman). Hendrickson acknowledged the moment’s gravity in her caption, writing:
“After 24 years in front of the camera, I’m thrilled to be able to tell you all that I’ve stepped behind it. I hope you enjoy [the episode] as much as I did directing it. The privilege (and pressure 🙂) of working with two giants of our genre… was not lost on me.”
Stepping into the director’s chair is an intimidating prospect for anyone—let alone alongside two soap legends—but Hendrickson met the challenge with poise and humility.
Gratitude and Growth
In the remainder of her caption, Hendrickson poured gratitude onto those who made her dream possible. She thanked Josh Griffith, Y&R’s Executive Producer and Head Writer, for supporting her vision from day one. Additional shoutouts went to key crew members including Danielle Unger, Renée Villafan, Matt Olsen, Jonathan Fishman, Vivianne Gundaker, Robbin Phyllips, Matt Kane, and Jill Farren Phelps. Hendrickson didn’t forget her mentor, Owen Renfroe, whom she credited as “the best teacher and mentor” for his guidance and belief in her capabilities.
Fans Can’t Wait
The fanbase’s excitement is palpable. Reactions poured into the comments section of her post with words of encouragement and praise. “Yay! I’ll be watching,” one fan wrote. Another commented, “How exciting!!! I watch @youngandtherestless_ every day and love it. Looking forward to your directing debut!!!”
There’s something deeply compelling about watching a performer take the reins in a new creative capacity—especially one who has become such an integral part of the show’s fabric.
Elizabeth Hendrickson Takes the Helm: Behind the Scenes of Her Directorial Debut on The Young and the Restless A Beloved Star Steps into a Bold New Role After more than two decades captivating audiences in front of the camera, The Young and the Restless (Y&R) fan-favorite Elizabeth Hendrickson is boldly stepping into new territory. In…